I contacted the Penmar Arts Society on March 28 asking them these two questions: How close are you to reaching your goal of $165,000? How much time do you have left to reach that goal?
With three days left in their fundraising drive I wanted to know how close they were to their goal, whether that goal was achievable, whether they would be able to get an extension and if I could be of any assistance in helping them to raise these funds.
Unfortunately, I did not receive a reply to this email.
Despite the lack of response from this group I consider this to be a worthwhile project and believe it should have the surrounding community’s support.
Since the unfortunate destruction of the auditorium there is a serious shortfall in adequate venues to support mid-size entertainment. Of course there is always the alternative; grandiose plans for an Arts Centre for around $50-million. I am of the opinion that the successful opening of the Penmar should go a long way to fulfilling the gap left by the destruction of the auditorium.
I believe with the generous $35,000 donation by Pig Butler they have managed to attract $65,000 towards their needed goal. As you can see with a current shortfall of $100,000 they still have a long way to go. They have received a one month extension so I am assuming they have until April 30 to meet their deadline.
There are many options: You can donate and receive a tax receipt; buy seat or a membership and receive discounts.
A total of 3,500 people signed the petition to keep the auditorium, including my husband and me. While we are unable to match the generous donation of Pig Butler’s we hereby pledge $500 towards this goal and I challenge everyone in Penticton and the surrounding community to meet this challenge. If only 200 people rise to this challenge the goal will be reached.
If you can donate more do it; if you can’t donate $500 donate $100 or anything from $2 on up; whatever you can. You can donate on line at www.open-the-doors.ca.
Alternatively, donate some time raising money for this project. If you wish to send a cheque call 250-493-8540.
Let’s make this work.
Elvena Slump
Penticton